No Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Layered Dessert

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No Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Layered Dessert

Introduction

If you’re a fan of Reese’s, chocolate, or peanut butter, this no-bake dessert is your ultimate sweet dream. It layers a chocolate cookie crust, fluffy peanut butter filling, and a silky chocolate ganache, all crowned with mini peanut butter cups and chocolate chips. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a decadent treat without turning on the oven.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 2 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (e.g., Oreos, crushed)
  • ½ cup melted unsalted butter

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups whipped topping or heavy cream (whipped)

For the Chocolate Layer:

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ½ cup heavy cream

Toppings:

  • Mini peanut butter cups
  • Additional chocolate chips
  • Crushed cookies (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter.
  2. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
  3. Press firmly into a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even layer.
  4. Place in the refrigerator to set while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Add peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy.
  3. Gently fold in the whipped topping or whipped cream until well combined.
  4. Spread this filling evenly over the chilled crust layer.

Step 3: Chocolate Ganache Topping

  1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
  2. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl.
  3. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
  4. Pour the ganache over the peanut butter filling and spread evenly.

Step 4: Garnish and Chill

  1. Top the ganache with mini peanut butter cups and extra chocolate chips.
  2. Optionally, add some crushed cookies for extra crunch.
  3. Chill the dessert for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) until fully set.

Formation

This dessert forms distinct, creamy layers:

  • Base: Crumbly, rich chocolate crust.
  • Middle: Smooth, fluffy peanut butter cheesecake-style filling.
  • Top: Glossy chocolate ganache with crunchy, nutty toppings.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1/12 of dish):

  • Calories: ~460 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: ~38g
  • Protein: ~7g
  • Fat: ~32g
  • Sugars: ~25g
  • Fiber: ~3g
    Note: Nutrition may vary depending on exact ingredients used.

Benefits

This dessert is high in healthy fats, protein, and sugars, making it an excellent energy source. It’s perfect for:

  • Post-workout recovery
  • Midday energy slumps
  • Long study or work sessions

2. Rich in Protein

Thanks to the peanut butter and cream cheese, each serving offers a moderate amount of protein, which:

  • Helps repair and build muscle
  • Supports satiety and reduces unnecessary snacking
  • Balances blood sugar when paired with carbs

3. Good Fats for Brain Health

Peanut butter contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are:

  • Great for heart health
  • Essential for brain function and memory
  • Supportive of hormonal balance

4. Mood Enhancer

Chocolate contains compounds like theobromine, caffeine, and phenylethylamine that:

  • Trigger serotonin and endorphin release
  • Improve mood and reduce stress
  • Provide a comforting effect (especially dark chocolate)

5. Quick & No-Bake Convenience

  • No need to turn on the oven, making it a cool dessert option for summer.
  • Can be made ahead for parties and stored in the fridge.
  • Saves time while still delivering an impressive, layered presentation.

6. Family- and Kid-Friendly

  • Loved by all age groups
  • Fun to decorate with toppings (kids can help!)
  • Easy to customize with additions like nuts, white chocolate chips, or pretzels

7. Satisfying Texture Combination

  • Crunchy crust + creamy peanut butter layer + smooth ganache = satisfaction in every bite
  • Textural variety keeps it interesting and makes it feel more indulgent

8. Customizable & Versatile

  • Can be made gluten-free with gluten-free cookies
  • Use low-fat cream cheese or sugar substitutes to make it lighter
  • Swap toppings with your favorites (crushed pretzels, chopped nuts, etc.)

9. Keeps Well for Days

  • Stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 5–6 days
  • Flavors meld together more as it sits
  • Great for leftovers and late-night cravings

10. Pure Indulgence & Joy

  • Let’s be honest—desserts like this feed your soul
  • Perfect for celebrating, comforting, or sharing love with someone
  • Sometimes, joy and comfort are benefits all on their own

Lovéra: The Joy of Sharing

In the spirit of lovéra—a made-up but heartfelt concept for food that brings love and joy—this dessert embodies the feeling of warmth, care, and indulgence. Every bite reminds you of family dinners, late-night laughs, or a comforting treat after a rough day.

Conclusion

This no-bake peanut butter chocolate layered dessert isn’t just another sweet treat—it’s a bite of comfort, love, and luxury. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday, potluck, or just as a reward for making it through the week, it’s bound to become a favorite. The balance of textures and flavors—soft, crunchy, creamy, and rich—makes every slice unforgettable.

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